Lesser-known Italian lakes that captivate with their beauty

Italian lakes with remarkable scenery, often overlooked by tourists

These days, these places are getting visited in much higher numbers, making some destinations feel a bit overwhelmed. Nevertheless, there are still places to go to enjoy a peaceful trip while experiencing beautiful scenery.

I'm talking about lakes! But not the popular ones like Lake Garda or Lake Como.

Italy is full of these hidden treasures - smaller lakes with amazing views that haven't made it onto many tourist maps yet. They're where local people gather for day trips and picnics.

Here are three of the best:

Lake Turano

This lake is one of the best-kept secrets in Lazio, the region near Rome. Most tourists who visit Rome, especially during its scorching summers, don't know about this little piece of paradise.

Lake Turano wasn't created as a tourist attraction initially. It was built in the 1930s by Mussolini to provide water to nearby power stations. But somehow, it became a welcome retreat from city life for people craving open spaces.

Lago del Turano, as it's known, is perfectly located - just a few hours' drive from Rome, but far from the noise and hustle-bustle.

Its countryside setting is nothing short of magical. It used to be home to the Fallisci, an ancient tribe, who were later wiped out by the Romans.

As you drive closer to the lake, herds of free-roaming cows and sheep come into view. The final stretch of the road takes you through a dense forest, which opens up to a beautiful view of the lake.

The lake is teeming with huge carp, making it a popular spot for anglers from all over Italy.

You'll find two picturesque villages overlooking the lake - Castel di Tora, perched on a cliff-top, and Colle di Tora, nestled right at the water's edge. There's also a peninsula with an old monastery on it.

The water is crystal-clear, and there are plenty of places to rent boats, kayaks or just lie down on the shore and soak up the sun.

Apart from that metal bridge connecting Castel di Tora to the main road, the place feels untouched by modern life. In winter, most homes near the lake are shut, leaving the narrow alleys eerily quiet, apart from the occasional meow from a cat. In spring, locals come out of hibernation, spruce up their patios and gather in the town square.

Fresh fish is served at Ristorante L'Angoletto, a cozy spot with a panoramic terrace overlooking the lake. In Hotel Turano, you can find no-frills rooms with a view and a restaurant that specializes in local specialties.

Lake Scanno

This enchanting lake in the Abruzzo region is the most intriguing of the three. Over the years, many myths and legends have been woven around Lake Scanno. It's still a mystery to this day.

Situated at the foot of the Apennines mountains, Lake Scanno has been nicknamed the 'Pearl' of the region. It's said to have supernatural powers.

Many strange occurrences have been reported over the years - lights bulbs exploding, TV screens acting funny, compasses going haywire, dead fish floating on the surface,and even unidentified World War II weapons. There may be some mystery object buried in the lake bed.

It's said that the air around the lake is filled with a mysterious atmosphere, especially in summer.

Bathing and windsurfing are allowed in Lake Scanno. If you're feeling adventurous, try the 'Path of the Heart', a hiking trail that circles the lake and passes by a church believed to have miraculous properties, and an old hermitage.

There's a beach near the lake too, complete with facilities for swimming and windsurfing. You can also rent mountain bikes or rickshaws, go rowing or canoeing. There's even a playground for children and a car park for campers.

Agriturismo Miralago is a farm and B&B near Lake Scanno. It's home to grazing horses. The restaurant here serves traditional dishes such as tagliatelle with wild boar. The village of Scanno is worth a visit - it has opulent mansions and humble shepherd dwellings adorned with colorful flower pots.

Lake Iseo

Situated just a few miles from Milan, Lake Iseo is another stunning spot. It was created by meltwater from the Alps.

Lake Iseo is also known for producing fantastic sparkling wines, thanks to the grapes grown along its shores.

There are three islands on the lake - two of them are private, but the largest one, Montisola, is loved by nature lovers.

Lake Nemi, near Rome, sits in an extinct volcanic crater.

This lake offers a chance to get close to nature, if you're interested in that kind of thing. You can hike the trails around the lake or rent boats or canoes. There's even a children's playground and camping facilities nearby.

Besides, it's said that some of Italy's best sparkling wines can be found here. Cheers!

Visitors can explore these picturesque Italian lakes and experience the rich history and natural beauty that surrounds them.

For those seeking a peaceful escape, Lake Nemi offers the opportunity to rent canoes or fishing boats for a private tour of the lake. Along the shores, there are vibrant fishermen's houses on stilts above the water, including Restaurant Locanda al Lago, known for its delicious fish dishes and traditional sardines hanging to dry on the pier. What's more, Hotel Sensole is a stunning Baroque palace facing the lake and houses a gourmet bistrot.

Just beyond the southwestern suburbs of Rome, this tiny lake became a popular destination for Sunday lunches with traditional porchetta sandwiches and full-bodied red wines. The original inhabitants of the Roman Empire once used the lake as a luxurious retreat, surrounded by strawberry fields, archaeological ruins, and lush forests.

Lake Nemi is situated at the foot of the Colli Albani hills, overlooking Rome and known to be of volcanic origin. To access it, you can follow the ancient path that winds down from a village on the nearby hill that shares the name of the lake.

For those who prefer a comfortable stay, Lakefront B&B Lago di Nemi is an old renovated farmhouse that rents bicycles, while La Fiocina on the shores serves fish specialties like fried whitebait with green peppers.

If you're looking for a secluded getaway, Lake Orta in the Piedmont region is a hidden gem that people often overlook when flocking to nearby Lago Maggiore. Created by a melting Alpine glacier, this serene lake is surrounded by quaint villages, chapels, and medieval towers. The San Giulio monastery-island rises from the center of the water.

The area boasts numerous biking and horseback riding trails, as well as opportunities for waterskiing and scuba diving with the clear waters off the lake's pebble beaches. For a five-star experience, L'Approdo is a lakefront hotel with stunning views from its panoramic terrace and a pool.

A scenic yet lesser-known location, Lake Trasimeno in Umbria offers an unforgettable experience. Formed by the Earth's crust tectonic movements, this serene lake is situated in an area where only locals have holiday homes and shops in the overhanging village of Castiglione do not usually sell souvenirs. The scenic banks are home to medieval hamlets and wooden bridges, perfect for birdwatching and enjoying scenic sunsets with drinks.

Visitors can also enjoy the windsurfing and kite equipment available at the beaches.

B&B Dolce Dormire offers cozy rooms in Castiglione's ancient district, while La Casa di Campagna is a rural farm and tavern serving local specialties.

Lake Trasimeno is located in a less-touristed part of Umbria region.

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Despite the increase in tourists, there are still lesser-known Italian lakes that offer a peaceful escape for those seeking tranquility. Lake Turano, for instance, located in Lazio, is a hidden gem that was built in the 1930s but has become a retreat from city life for those craving open spaces.

Similarly, Lake Scanno, situated in the Abruzzo region, is an enchanting lake known for its myths and legends, offering a unique experience for those who seek mystery and adventure.

Source: edition.cnn.com